Cleaners & Degreasers

Cleaners & Degreasers

Metal cleaning is an essential process in various industries, including manufacturing, engineering, and construction. It involves the use of cleaning products, such as heavy duty degreasers, to remove grease, grime, and dirt from metal surfaces. A powerful degreaser is well suited for this task, as it can effectively cut through tough grease and grime, leaving surfaces clean and free of residue. When it comes to removing grease and grime from hard surfaces, a purpose cleaner or a degreaser is often the best option. In addition to degreasers, pressure washers can also be used to clean metal surfaces, especially in industrial settings. Regular cleaning and maintenance of metal surfaces can help prevent damage and extend their lifespan.

  • Centrecoat Eco Cleaner and Degreaser
    For use on heavily contaminated surfaces, cleans oil brick, stone, concrete, cement and hard surfaces.
    From £38.82
    (£46.58 Inc VAT)
  • Rustoleum ND14 Cleaner and Degreaser
    Removes grease, dirt and other contaminants from coated, mineral and steel substrates, prior to decoration.
    From £71.40
    (£85.68 Inc VAT)
  • Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield 2901 Cleaner Degreaser
    EpoxyShield Cleaner Degreaser for removing grease and other surface contaminants.
    From £44.68
    (£53.62 Inc VAT)
  • Coo-Var Q227 Oil Remover
    From £42.30
    (£50.76 Inc VAT)
  • FLAG T10009 Xylene Thinner
    Thinners for FLAG Road Line Marking Paint.
    From £36.12
    (£43.34 Inc VAT)
  • Owatrol Owayell Gelcoat and Metal Renovator
    A fast acting yellow stain remover to remove marks, mould and stains from gelcoat, stainless steel and metal surfaces.
    From £21.70
    (£26.04 Inc VAT)
  • Rust-Oleum Pre-Paint Cleaner 2904
  • Teamac Mordant Solution T-Wash
    A pre-treatment liquid for galvanised metal.
    From £45.22
    (£54.26 Inc VAT)
  • Sherwin Williams Mordant T-Wash L703 - Formerly Leighs Transgard TG155
    Mordant wash solution formulated to give galvanised surfaces a chemical pre treatment. Highways Item No.155.
    From £57.26
    (£68.71 Inc VAT)
  • Coo-Var Universal Degreaser / Cleaner
    Powerful cleaner / degreaser used for interior and exterior use.
    From £23.85
    (£28.62 Inc VAT)
  • Sherwin Williams Degreaser W500 - Formerly Leighs Envirogard
    Water-based degreasing agent, free from harmful chemicals.
    From £67.59
    (£81.11 Inc VAT)
  • International Interplus 634 Paint Disbonder
    A single component, water based paint disbonder designed to remove coating residues from metallic substrates.
    From £859.25
    (£1,031.10 Inc VAT)
  • Axalta ViterWash T Etch Solution for Galvanising
    A single pack phosphoric acid etch solution for the preparation of fresh galvanised surfaces prior to painting.
    From £27.89
    (£33.47 Inc VAT)
  • Tensid Cladex HD
    A concentrated heavy duty alkaline cleaner for cleaning heavily soiled plastic type material and contemporary cladding.
    From £238.22
    (£285.86 Inc VAT)
  • Tensid Cladex LD
    A pH neutral cleaning product. For cleaning medium soiled plastic type surfaces.
    From £203.91
    (£244.69 Inc VAT)
  • Selemix D837 Waterborne Degreaser
    Selemix degreaser for preparing substrates ready for Selemix primers and topcoat systems.
  • Mapei UltraCare HD Cleaner
    A concentrated high performing professional detergent to remove organic dirt and to undertake a deep clean of surfaces.
    From £69.58
    (£83.50 Inc VAT)
  • Owatrol Compo-Clean Cleaner Degreaser for Composite Wood
    A water based composite wood cleaner. Quickly and easily removes all types of dirt (grease, stains, moss, pollution, etc).
    From £15.30
    (£18.36 Inc VAT)

18 Items

Metal Cleaners for Preparing the Substrate

Here you will find a range of metal cleaners and degreasers, perfect for aiding in the correct preparation of substrates before they are coated. These products ensure optimal surface preparation and cleaning efficiency, making them suitable for preparing metal and a range of other substrates.

If you need help finding a cleaning solution to prepare a metal surface, we can help you move forward. We have a collection of high performance metal cleaners and degreasers, suitable for preparing the surface for your metal paint or coating. Please take the time to browse all products and find the item which best suits you and your project.

Cleaners and Degreasers for Metal

Promain offers a range of cleaning and degreasing solutions, including products from the likes of Coo-Var, Rust-Oleum and FLAG, just to name a few. We have pre-paint cleaners, oil removers, stain and mark removers and metal renovation products to help you with your project. Our products are designed to enhance cleaning efficiency and ensure proper surface preparation.

Preparing Metal for Painting

When it comes to applying any coat of paint, it’s important to spend time on surface preparation. When the surface has been prepared properly, the coating in question can perform properly to the best of its ability. With a properly prepared surface, you will avoid flaking or peeling when you apply the new coating. You will also be able to make sure all dirt and debris has been removed, thus ensuring a smooth and even surface with no lumps and bumps that may present themselves due to loose material being painted over.

A quality product will also help you to remove marks and stains, such as an oil patch, which would certainly cause a problem if you were to attempt to paint over it.

Cleaning and preparing a substrate prior to painting will help the paint to perform in a number of ways. Asides from the obvious (the way paint looks when dry), a surface which is free from dirt, stains, marks and debris will help the pain to perform as it should, according to the technical data sheet. A surface which is free from grease and oil will also be much easier to coat that a surface which is left un-prepared. If you are still unsure why it is important to prepare a surface properly, we have a number of resources available that highlight the importance of surface prep.

Buy Cleaners and Degreasers Online

Our cleaners and degreasers, can be used to clean metal cladding, concrete floors, steel, swimming pools, brick, stone and a range of other .

Please take the time to browse through our cleaner/degreaser product range to find the item(s) that best suit your needs. If you need any help, please call our technical support team on: 01462 421 333 and ask us any questions you have relating to the products we have and how/where to use them effectively. We will gladly help. Our products are designed to maximise cleaning efficiency, ensuring you get the best results every time.

What Are Metal Cleaners & Degreasers?

Metal cleaners and degreasers are used to wash away grime, oil, and hardened grease from hard surfaces. These products are designed for washing and precision cleaning in areas ranging from kitchens to factories. With types varying from heavy duty degreasers to diluted, eco-friendly options, there’s a product for every environment and task. Proper surface preparation and cleaning efficiency are crucial for achieving the best results.

Types of Metal Cleaners

  • Solvent-Based Degreasers: These are heavy duty and effective for tackling stubborn grime and grease. Solvent-based options are often used in industrial settings for cleaning machinery, floors, and equipment.

  • Water-Based Cleaners: Often more sustainable and safer for frequent use, these are purpose cleaners that work well in kitchens and domestic spaces. They clean without harsh chemicals and rinse away easily with clean water.

  • Bio-Based or Eco-Friendly Products: These are made with the environment in mind and are well suited for areas where safe disposal is important. They help reduce impact on natural processes without cutting down on cleaning effectiveness. In fact, these products do not compromise on cleaning power. Additionally, they offer excellent cleaning efficiency.

Benefits of Using Metal Degreasers for Removing Grease

  • Cuts through thick grease, oil, and dirt quickly

  • Makes future cleaning easier by preventing build-up

  • Prepares metal surfaces for painting or coating

  • Helps reduce long-term damage by stopping rust

  • Safe to use on a wide variety of materials when instructions are followed

Using the correct degreaser improves the overall quality of your cleaning processes, and makes the job faster and easier. These benefits are particularly valuable in home care settings, where maintaining cleanliness and preventing damage are essential. Additionally, the cleaning efficiency of a good degreaser ensures thorough removal of contaminants.

Common Uses

  • Industrial Machinery: Removes layers of grease and grime from motors, gears, and components.

  • Vehicle Parts: Ideal for removing grease from engines, brake components, and metal housings.

  • Kitchen Ovens and Appliances: Cuts through hardened oil and residue often found on stainless steel and enamel surfaces using an effective surface cleaner.

  • Floors and Walls: Great for tackling mildew, oil spots, and chemical stains in work areas or garages.

  • Pressure Washers: Can be used with some diluted degreasers for outdoor surfaces or large-scale cleaning jobs. Proper surface preparation is essential for achieving the best results.

Industrial Applications

In industrial settings, the need for effective metal cleaning is paramount. Heavy duty degreasers are well suited for removing grease and grime from hard surfaces such as machinery, floors, and walls. Industries like manufacturing and engineering rely on these products to ensure the quality and safety of their operations. The use of pressure washers and purpose cleaners can also be highly effective in removing stubborn grease and grime, making the cleaning process more efficient. 

By applying a suitable degreaser, you can prevent damage to surfaces and machinery, ensuring that they remain in optimal condition. This not only enhances the quality of the products but also extends the lifespan of the equipment. Additionally, the cleaning efficiency of these products is crucial for maintaining operational standards.

Heavy Duty Degreaser

A heavy duty degreaser is a specialist cleaning product designed to tackle tough grease and grime on various surfaces. These degreasers are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings where heavy-duty cleaning is required. Unlike regular cleaning products, heavy duty degreasers are more concentrated and formulated to handle stubborn grease and grime. 

When using a heavy duty degreaser, it is essential to follow the instructions on the label and take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area. To enhance the effectiveness of the degreaser, you can soak the surface, rinse with clean water, and repeat the process if necessary. This ensures that the surface is thoroughly cleaned and free from any residual contaminants. Additionally, heavy duty degreasers are known for their superior cleaning efficiency, making them ideal for challenging cleaning tasks.

Choosing the Right Cleaner

Before buying a product, always check the label to ensure it is suitable for surface preparation. It’s important to know if it’s suitable for your type of metal and the level of contamination. Some cleaners are best for light oil and dirt, while others are meant for heavy duty work. 

A purpose cleaner can be particularly effective, as these multi-purpose cleaning products are designed to tackle various stubborn soiling issues across different washable surfaces, including kitchens and bathrooms. Consider the environment too—sustainable products are now widely available and proven to work effectively across many settings.

Safety Tips

  • Always wear gloves when applying strong cleaners or degreasers

  • Use spray bottles carefully for better control and precision

  • Ensure proper ventilation to avoid breathing in fumes

  • Store products safely and out of reach from children

  • Read all instructions on the label before starting any job

Using the right safety steps reduces the chance of damage to surfaces and protects your health. It is also important to take care when using these products to ensure safe and effective cleaning. Additionally, following these tips can significantly improve cleaning efficiency.

Storage Advice

  • Keep products in original containers to avoid mix-ups

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

  • Avoid freezing or overheating – extreme conditions can affect the product’s effectiveness

  • Make sure cleaning products are only used in areas they’re allowed and suitable for

  • Proper storage is crucial in home care settings to ensure safety and maintain product effectiveness. Proper storage also helps in maintaining the cleaning efficiency of the products.

Environmental Considerations

Look for cleaning products that are biodegradable or labelled as safe for the environment. Proper use and disposal of degreasers reduces risk to water supplies and surrounding areas. Avoid pouring leftover product down drains - follow local waste guidelines to cut environmental harm.

In fact, eco-friendly products do not compromise on cleaning power. They often match or exceed traditional products in cleaning efficiency.

Disposal and Recycling

Proper disposal and recycling of cleaning products, including degreasers, are crucial for maintaining a sustainable environment. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label and dispose of the product and its packaging responsibly. Many cleaning products, including degreasers, can be recycled or reused, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. Additionally, using eco-friendly cleaning products and adopting sustainable practices can help minimise the environmental impact of cleaning processes. 

By following these practices, individuals and organisations can contribute to a safer and more sustainable environment while ensuring the quality and effectiveness of their cleaning products. This not only benefits the environment but also promotes safer and more responsible use of cleaning products. Furthermore, considering the cleaning efficiency of these products can lead to better results and more sustainable practices.

Application Methods with Pressure Washers

  • Spray Application Ideal for covering large or uneven surfaces like walls, panels, and metal machinery. This method also enhances cleaning efficiency when used with pressure washers.

  • Brush or Cloth Best for precision work, including corners or detailed parts.

  • Soak and Rinse Use this process for small items that need thorough degreasing - just soak them, then rinse with clean water to wash away grease and grime effectively.

Maintenance Tips

Easy and regular cleaning is essential to avoid stubborn grime and build-up. Ensuring cleaning efficiency can significantly reduce the time and effort required.

Choose the right product for the job to ensure safe and effective removal.

Check metal parts for early signs of rust or wear during cleaning.

Use diluted cleaners where appropriate to save product and reduce damage.

Staff responsible for cleaning should be trained to learn the proper use and storage of chemicals for both safety and ease.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a product on unsuitable materials (e.g., using a solvent cleaner on coated metals without checking the label)

  • Applying too much cleaner – always follow the instructions for correct dilution and use

  • Ignoring safety steps like gloves or ventilation

  • Skipping rinsing – leftover cleaner can leave marks or cause damage over time

It’s important to take care to avoid these common mistakes. Ensuring proper cleaning efficiency can save time and prevent damage.

FAQs:

What’s the best cleaner for removing grease from metal?

For thick grease, use a heavy duty degreaser that’s proven effective on oil and dirt. Water-based or diluted options may suit lighter jobs or sensitive environments. Consider the cleaning efficiency of the product to ensure optimal results.

Can you use degreasers on kitchen appliances?

Yes – just make sure the product is safe for food-prep areas and always rinse thoroughly. Many purpose cleaners are made for kitchens and oven surfaces.

Can I use these products with a pressure washer?

Some degreasers can be diluted and used in pressure washers, especially for cleaning floors or industrial machinery.

Do all degreasers have a strong scent?

Not all – some are low odour or citrus-based. Always check the product details if scent is a concern.

Maintenance and Repair

Regular maintenance and repair are crucial in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of machinery and equipment. This includes cleaning and degreasing surfaces to prevent the buildup of grease and grime, which can lead to damage and downtime. A heavy duty degreaser is an effective solution for removing stubborn grease and grime from surfaces, including floors, walls, and machinery. When using a degreaser, it’s essential to follow the instructions on the label and take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area. In some cases, soaking and rinsing may be required to ensure the surface is clean and free of residue. 

By using the right cleaning products and following proper procedures, individuals can tackle even the toughest cleaning jobs with ease. Additionally, using sustainable and environmentally friendly cleaning products can help reduce the environmental impact of cleaning and maintenance processes.

Promain Product Recommendations

Promain offers a wide range of professional cleaning products, including degreasers suitable for a variety of tasks, from kitchens to industrial floors. Below are some top choices:

These products are selected for their high cleaning efficiency, ensuring optimal results for various cleaning needs.